Individual and Community Hurricane Preparedness

The start of hurricane season is right around the corner. According to FEMA's 2015 National Household Survey, two out of every three Americans are aware of what to do should a hurricane affect the area in which they live or work.

This week, during National Hurricane Preparedness Week (May 7-13) learn the steps you can take to prepare for a hurricane.

The Pacific hurricane season begins May 15 and the Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1. The Ready Campaign has resources to help you prepare your family and promote hurricane preparedness in your community.

It is important to take some time to prepare with your family, colleagues, neighbors, or community group to assess your risk, develop plans, assemble supplies, and conduct emergency drills.

For information on hurricane preparedness both at home and for the workplace, visit the Prepareathon Hurricane page to download the How to Prepare for a Hurricane Guide, the Prepare Your Organization for a Hurricane Playbook, or watch the When the Waves Swell animated video.

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This week, during National Pet Week (May 7-13), take some steps to ensure your pets have what they need when severe weather or other emergencies hit.

The Ready Campaign offers some considerations to plan for your animals in an emergency. Identify what you can do now to check some items off your list.

Actions you can take include:

• Ensure that your pet has a legible ID at all times. This includes making sure tags are up-to-date and securely fastened to your pet's collar. Microchipping your pet is painless and can ensure information is available even if a collar is lost.
• Keep a current photo of your pet for identification purposes.
• Prepare a pet emergency kit. Download this pet owner's fact sheet for a full list of items to include in your pets kit.
• Identify shelters. For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets. Find out which motels and hotels in the area you plan to evacuate to allow pets well in advance of travelling.
• Have a secure pet carrier, leash or harness for your pet so they don't escape if they get scared.

Learn more about preparing your pets at Ready.gov/Animals.

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Please help spread the word about the 2017 FEMA Individual Community Preparedness Awards! Download an application form and apply today! You can also nominate an individual or organization who inspires you to prepare.

For example, if you know someone who used outreach and messaging techniques not only to raise awareness about hazards and disaster preparedness, but also to persuade members of the public, organizations, and community sectors to take action to prepare, they may be eligible for the Awareness to Action award. Learn more about this category and others and act today so you don't miss an opportunity to recognize someone or be recognized yourself!

To be considered for any of this year's awards, send all applications to fema-icp-awards@fema.dhs.gov by May 30, 2017 at 11:59 p.m. EDT and feature program activities occurring between January 1, 2016 and May 30, 2017. For more information on how to apply, visit: http://www.ready.gov/preparedness-awards.

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